About Us

The Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (MBB) has 22 faculty that combine molecular, biochemical, genetic, structural and cell biological approaches to study a diverse array of fundamental biological problems. Current areas of study include understanding the role of chromatin in transcriptional regulation, RNA processing, DNA replication and transposition, protein folding and molecular recognition, circadian rhythm, signal transduction, cell cycle control, cell death and development. The faculty are members of the School of Arts and Sciences and located in the Nelson Biological laboratories, Waksman Institute, and the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine (CABM) on Busch Campus.

The MBB Department offers a undergraduate course of study in which traditional and modern biochemistry are integrated with studies in molecular biology. In addition to course work, all MBB undergraduate majors conduct independent research projects in molecular biology and biochemistry in a laboratory on campus. This course of study prepares students for graduate studies in molecular biology and biochemistry and related fields, entry into professional schools in medicine or other health professions, or employment in industries (e.g., biotechnology, pharmaceuticals) in which molecular biology and biochemistry skills are in demand.